In commemoration of the 6th anniversary of the passage of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) has called for the full implementation of the act.
In a press release signed by Mr. Godwin Unumeri, Acting Director of CCD, the organisation highlighted the progress made over the past six years while acknowledging that much more remains to be done.
The group also reiterated its commitment to full inclusion of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria.
The Act, passed in 2018, marked a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to protect and promote the rights of PWDs. It was designed to ensure the integration of PWDs into society, safeguard their rights to equal treatment, and guarantee their participation in all facets of life.
However, CCD has expressed concerns that limited awareness and a lack of enforcement have hindered the Act’s full implementation, even as the five-year compliance moratorium has now expired.
CCD also unveiled plans to further advocate for disability rights under the theme: “Advancing Disability Rights: Reflecting, Celebrating, and Renewing Our Commitments to Inclusion.”
The group emphasized the need for all stakeholders to prioritise the implementation of the Disability Act while urging the government, private sector, and the public to take concrete steps towards:
“Enforcing accessibility standards in physical structures and transportation systems.
“Providing inclusive education and employment opportunities. Ensuring the participation of PWDs in political, social, and economic activities.
“Enhancing healthcare access and safety measures for PWDs, especially during emergencies and natural disasters.”
CCD also commended the formation of the Inter-Ministerial Agency Committee on Disability Inclusion, describing it as a critical step in ensuring the compliance of ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) with the Act.
The Group called for stronger efforts by the committee to enforce accessibility standards and engage with organisations of persons with disabilities (OPDs) in policy formulation and implementation.
CCD further encouraged Nigerians – government, civil society, the private sector, and the general public to actively support the implementation of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018.